It’s week 1, and there are high expectations for everyone. You should probably start your top 3 to 5 players regardless of their matchup. So, let’s look at the next tier of guys, those who might be viable matchup-based to fill that gap at the end of your lineup.
QB:
Kyler Murray: He faces a Saints D that was bottom ten against the pass last, and they are projected to be even worse this year.
Trevor Lawrence: He has weapons and faces a Carolina D that was bottom of the league last year against the pass. Yummy.
RB:
Austin Ekeler: No more Robinson, a couple backs unproven, and a Giants D that is mediocre at best. Milk him while you can.
Kenneth Walker: Speaking of milking someone while you can, don’t be afraid to play Walker this week. He won’t get injured until like week 5 or 6.
WR:
Tyreek Hill: Unlike Walker, probably not afraid of his injury, but you are afraid of Tua getting another concussion thereby affecting him. So, play Hill while you can until Tua gets concussed in Week 4 probably pushing him to an early retirement.
Jerry Jeudy: Cleveland will have to throw to keep up with Cincy. And with no established running game yet, Flacco will be airing it out.
TE:
David Njoku: And since Flacco will be airing it out, you are in good shape to play Njoku too, the 2nd best receiver on the team.
T. J. Hockenson: He basically has a rookie QB, and who’s a rookie QB’s best friend? The tight end, that’s right. Combine that with the fact Chicago was bad against the position last year, it’s a good matchup.
D:
Jaguars: I rarely to never suggest starting this team D. In this case, it’s a home game against a Panthers team that is probably worse than them. Good matchup to start the year for the Jags.
Commanders: They weren’t exactly a start em every D last year, but they also get to start at home against a team worse than them in the Giants. Even better matchup for the Commanders.
By Brooksie on September 6, 2025